Cargo restraint with RF beacon

ABSTRACT

A cargo restraint component such as a cargo restraint panel or a component of a load restraint strip system (e.g., a connecting strip or a load restraint strip) may comprise an attached RF beacon. That beacon can be configured to transmit identifying data. An RF beacon attached to a cargo restraint panel or to a component of a load restraint strip system may include one or more sensors that can measure one or more environmental parameters.

BACKGROUND

Various types of components can be used to restrain cargo for shipment. These components are designed to secure cargo so as to prevent shifting during transport, which shifting could damage the cargo or the vessels used for transport. Some types of cargo restraint components may also provide cushioning and other protection. Typically, however, cargo restraining components have not been used for monitoring or tracking purposes.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the invention.

A cargo restraint component such as a cargo restraint panel or a component of a load restraint strip system (e.g., a connecting strip or a load restraint strip) may comprise an attached RF beacon. That beacon can be configured to transmit identifying data. In some embodiments, an RF beacon attached to a cargo restraint panel or to a component of a load restraint strip system may include one or more sensors that can measure one or more environmental parameters.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements.

FIG. 1A is a side view of one example in which cargo restraint panels according to some embodiments have been used to secure cargo units in a cargo shipping container.

FIG. 1B is a top view from the location indicated in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a cargo restraint panel according to some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged partial side view from the location indicated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a partially schematic area cross-sectional view taken from a sectioning plane having the location indicated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a partially schematic area cross-sectional view of a cargo restraint panel according to another embodiment.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are front perspective views of cargo restraint panels according to additional embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing components of an RF beacon according to some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing operations performed by an RF beacon according to some embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing operations performed by an RF beacon according to some further embodiments.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing operations performed by an RF beacon according to some additional embodiments.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a simplified example of use of cargo restraint panels according to some embodiments.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing components of a monitoring station according to some embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing load restraint strip systems, according to some embodiments, in which RF beacons are attached to connecting strips.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing load restraint strip systems, according to some embodiments, in which RF beacons are attached to load restraint strips.

FIG. 16 is a partially schematic plan view showing an exterior face of a connecting strip according to at least some embodiments.

FIG. 17 is a partially schematic plan view showing an interior face of a connecting a strip according to at least some embodiments.

FIG. 18 is a partially schematic area cross-sectional view taken from a sectioning plane having the location indicated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a partially schematic plan view showing an exterior face of a load restraint strip according to at least some embodiments.

FIG. 20 is a partially schematic plan view showing an interior face of the load restraint strip of claim 19 in a lined condition.

FIG. 21 is a partially schematic plan view showing the interior face of the load restraint strip of claim 19, and with a liner removed.

FIG. 22 is a partially schematic area cross-sectional view taken from a sectioning plane having the location indicated in FIG. 21.

FIGS. 23 through 26 are block diagrams showing steps in methods according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In some embodiments, a cargo restraint panel may include a polymer foam component and an attached radio frequency (RF) beacon. The panel, together with other similar panels, may be placed between cargo units and/or between a cargo unit and a bulkhead of a cargo shipping container. Through such placement, those panels may restrain those cargo units and prevent their movement within the shipping container. The foam components of those panels may absorb shock when the shipping container experiences acceleration, thereby cushioning the cargo units and preventing damage. Each of the panel RF beacons may transmit one or more identification codes and/or other data. Non-limiting examples of other data that may be transmitted are provided herein. Monitoring stations located at various locations along a route of cargo transport may be used to monitor for those identification codes and/or for other data.

Examples of cargo shipping containers include railcars, intermodal transport containers, semi trailers, and any other container in which one or more cargo units may be placed. FIG. 1A is a side view of one example in which cargo restraint panels 100 according to some embodiments have been placed between cargo units 101 and between cargo units 101 and a shipping container bulkhead. FIG. 1B is a top view from the location indicated in FIG. 1A. Cargo units 101 may represent any type of cargo that may be transported and for which restraint and protection against damage is desired. Although cargo units are shown as uniformly sized components in FIGS. 1A and 1B and in other drawings, cargo units in other embodiments may be non-uniformly sized and/or may be arranged in a different manner.

In the example of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the shipping container is a railcar 150. Front bulkhead 151 f, rear bulkhead 151 r, and top 151 t are represented with broken lines. A length axis L, height axis H, and a width axis W are also indicated. Cargo units 101 and cargo restraint panels 100 are arranged in a front-to-rear direction in alternating groups of cargo restraint panels 100 and cargo units 101. Panels 100 are placed between cargo units 101, between cargo units 101 and the inside surface of front bulkhead 151 f, and between cargo units 101 and the inside surface of rear bulkhead 151 r. Cargo units 101 are restrained from movement in the direction of axis L by the presence of panels 100 and by the presence of other cargo units. In particular, each cargo unit 101 is restrained from movement along axis L by elimination of gaps between the front and rear of that cargo unit and the next object (e.g., another cargo unit, a panel 100, a bulkhead of rail car 150) along axis L.

The example of FIGS. 1A and 1B represents a single example of how cargo units and cargo restraint panels according to some embodiments may be placed in a cargo shipping container. In other examples, cargo units and cargo restraint panels may be arranged differently, but the cargo units may still be restrained from movement and cushioned. Such other examples include, without limitation, the following: placing multiple cargo units adjoining one another along axis L; placing cargo units directly contacting a bulkhead; placing cargo units and/or cargo restraint panels into contact with a moveable bulkhead that can be positioned and secured within a shipping container interior; using cargo restraint panels of different sizes; and using cargo restraint panels in conjunction with other forms of cargo restraint to secure cargo units.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a cargo restraint panel 100 according to some embodiments. FIG. 3 is an enlarged partial side view of cargo restraint panel 100 from the location indicated in FIG. 2. Panel 100 has a front face 104, a rear face 105, and a plurality of side faces that extend between front face 104 and rear face 105. Side faces 106 and 107 are visible in FIG. 2 and a portion of side face 107 is visible in FIG. 3.

Panel 100 includes a polymer foam component 110. Foam component 110 is formed from an expanded polymer foam such as expanded polystyrene (EPS). In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a foam component may be a single polymer foam sheet. In other embodiments, a foam component may comprise two or more polymer foam sheets that have been bonded together. Foam component 110 has a front face 111, an opposite rear face, and a plurality of side faces extending between the front and rear faces. Side faces 112 and 113 are visible in FIG. 2.

Front face 104 of panel 100 comprises a facing material 115 that is bonded to front face 111 of foam component 110. Rear face 105 comprises a similar facing material that is bonded to the rear face of foam component 110. Although a corner of facing material 115 is shown peeled away in FIG. 2 for purposes of illustration, in some embodiments a facing material may be permanently bonded to a foam component. A permanent bonding is a bonding in which the bonded elements cannot be separated without at least partially damaging or destroying one or both of the elements. As used herein, a first element is “bonded” to a second element when the first element is firmly fixed relative to the second element across most or all of the interface between those elements. Bonding can include adhesive attachment using glue. Bonding can also include fusion whereby one or both of the first and second elements, and/or other elements, solidify (e.g., after partial melting) so as to hold the first and second elements in a fixed relationship to one another. Bonding can be direct or indirect. For example, a first element and a second element could be indirectly bonded to one another by each being bonded to an intermediate third element.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 3, side faces of foam component 110 are not covered by a facing material. Thus, panel face 106 and foam component side face 112 are the same, as are panel face 107 and foam component side face 113, as well as the other two pairs of panel 100 and foam component 110 side faces not visible in FIGS. 2 and 3. In other embodiments, one, some, or all side faces of a cargo restraint panel may include a facing material.

As seen in FIG. 2, and as seen in further detail in FIG. 3, a pocket 118 is formed in side face 107 of panel 100. Situated within pocket 118 is RF beacon 119. RF beacon 118 is attached to panel 100. In particular, a face 120 of a housing of RF beacon 119 is bonded to a face 121 of pocket 118. As explained in more detail below, RF beacon 119 includes a battery, processor, memory, and a transceiver and is configured to repeatedly transmit one or more identification codes. In some embodiments, RF beacon 119 may further include one or more sensors that are configured to measure environmental parameters. Non-limiting examples of environmental parameters that me be measured by an RF beacon sensor according to some embodiments include temperature, acceleration, and humidity.

In some embodiments, cargo restraint panel may have a height H1 of at least 4 feet, a length L1 of at least 4 feet, and a depth D1 of at least 6 inches. These dimensions are only one example, however. Embodiments include cargo restraint panels have larger or smaller depth dimensions and/or larger or smaller height dimensions and/or larger or smaller length dimensions.

FIG. 4 is a partially schematic area cross-sectional view of cargo restraint panel 100 taken from a sectioning plane having the location indicated in FIG. 3. Wave-shaped notations are added to FIG. 4 to schematically indicate portions of panel 100 have been omitted from the drawing for convenience, but that do not represent an actual interruption in the structure of panel 100. As shown generically in FIG. 4, RF beacon 119 may include a housing 123 that holds a printed circuit board 124 with one or more electronic components 125 mounted thereon. Further details regarding the structure of RF beacons according to some embodiments are provided below in connection with FIG. 8. Actual components of an RF beacon can be selected by persons of ordinary skill in the art based on the disclosure provided herein.

Enlargements (in large broken line circles) at the left and right sides of FIG. 4 show the structure of facing material 115 according to some embodiments. As seen in FIG. 2, facing material 115 on front face 104 of cargo restraint panel 100 covers the entire front face 111 of foam component 110. The left-side enlargement of FIG. 4 shows details of the structure of facing material 115 on front face 104 of cargo restraint panel 100. The structure shown in the left-side enlargement may be representative of the entire front face 104. Facing material 115 on rear face 105 of panel 100 covers an entire rear face 127 of foam component 110. The right-side enlargement of FIG. 4 shows details of the structure of facing material 115 on rear face 104 of cargo restraint panel 100. The structure shown in the right-side enlargement may be representative of the entire rear face 105.

Facing material 115 comprises a base layer 128, a reinforcement layer 129, and an attachment layer 130. Base layer 128 includes a sheet 131 of base layer material. Sheet 131 may be, e.g., a continuous piece of spun bonded polyethylene fiber material. Examples of such material includes the product sold under the trade name TYVEK. Examples of other base layer materials include bands of other types of spun bonded polymer fibers, films of polyester, polyethylene terephthalate (e.g., such as films sold under the trade name MYLAR) or other polymers, paper, bands of woven, knitted or felted natural fibers (e.g., cotton), and bands of woven or knitted artificial fibers. Embodiments also include cargo restraint panels having a facing material that lacks a layer such as base layer 128, and/or in which a reinforcement layer is directly bonded to a foam component face in another manner.

Reinforcement layer 129 is fixed relative to base layer 128. In particular, reinforcement fibers 132 are bonded to a side of sheet 131 by a laminating adhesive 133. In some embodiments, fibers 132 are parallel to one another and may extend from one edge of a panel face to an opposite edge. In some embodiments, fibers 132 are bundles of polymer strands having a denier (i.e., a linear mass density in grams per 9000 meters) of between about 1400 and about 1650. In some embodiments, there may be between 5 and 25 fibers 132 per inch in a direction perpendicular to the fibers. That direction is labeled “X” in FIG. 4. Exemplary materials for the strands of fibers 132 include polyester. Laminating adhesive 133 may be, e.g., an ethylene vinyl acetate water based copolymer adhesive. Attachment layer 130 is fixed relative to reinforcement layer 129 and relative to face 111 or face 127 of foam component 110. In some embodiments, attachment layer 130 may comprise a first adhesive layer 134, a second adhesive layer 136 and a substrate layer 135. Substrate layer 135 at least partially separates adhesive layers 134 and 136. In some embodiments, however, substrate layer 135 may include holes or other perforations permitting direct contact between adhesive layers 134 and 136 in certain regions, or may be completely absent. Adhesive layers 134 and 136 may comprise, e.g., an acrylic adhesive and substrate layer 135 may comprise a film of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or other polymer.

Although cargo restraint panel 100 has facing material 115 applied to two faces, embodiments include cargo restraint panels having facing material on fewer, more, or all faces of a foam component. For example, facing material 115 could be applied to one or more of side face 112, side face 113, or other side faces of foam component 110 in a manner similar to the manner in which material 115 is applied to front face 111 and rear face 127. If applied to side face 107 in which pocket 118 is located, the facing material may partially cover the pocket in some embodiments so as to provide additional protection for RF beacon 119. The portion of the facing material covering the pocket may include perforations or other openings to allow ventilation. In some embodiments, facing material on a side face may be completely removed over a pocket opening. In some embodiments, a cargo restraint panel may comprise different types of facing material applied to different locations.

FIG. 5 is a partially schematic area cross-sectional view of another cargo restraint panel 100′ that includes a different facing material 115′, but that is otherwise similar to panel 100 of FIGS. 2-4. The view of FIG. 5 is taken from a sectioning plane at a location similar to that indicated in FIG. 3 from which the view of FIG. 4 is taken. The left-side enlargement of FIG. 5 shows details of the structure of facing material 115′ on front face 104′ of cargo restraint panel 100′. The structure shown in the left-side enlargement may be representative of the entire front face 104′. Facing material 115′ on rear face 105′ of panel 100′ covers rear face 127 of foam component 110. The right-side enlargement of FIG. 5 shows details of the structure of facing material 115′ on rear face 105′ of cargo restraint panel 100′. The structure shown in the right-side enlargement may be representative of the entire rear face 105′. Facing material 115′ includes an adhesive later 130′ that bonds a monolithic polymer sheet 131′ to front face 111 or to rear face 127 of foam component 110. Sheets 131′ may be polyethylene terephthalate or other flexible polymer material. The adhesive 133′ of layer 130′ may comprise an ethylene vinyl acetate water based copolymer adhesive, an acrylic adhesive, or some other type of adhesive.

In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a cargo restraint panel may include edge guards attached to some or all edges of the panel front and rear faces. Panel 200 of FIG. 6 is similar to panel 100 and includes an RF beacon 119, but includes edge guards 161 on edges of front face 204 and on edges of the rear face. Panel 200′ of FIG. 7 is similar to panel 100 and to panel 200 and also includes an RF beacon 119. However, the edge guards 161′ of panel 200′ include overlapping corner extensions 162 that extend over the corners formed by joining of side face edges. Edge guards and/or corner extensions may be formed of a material that is more rigid and less compressible than the polymer foam of the cargo restraint panel to which they are attached, and more rigid than a facing material on the face(s) of the panel.

In still other embodiments, a cargo restraint panel may be similar to any of the cargo restraint panels described in commonly-owned U.S. Pat. No. 9,333,899, but with an RF beacon attached. U.S. Pat. No. 9,333,899, in its entirety, is incorporated by reference herein.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing components of RF beacon 119 according to some embodiments. RF beacon 119 may comprise one or more processors 165, one or more memories 166, one or more transceivers 167 having one or more antennas 168, one or more sensors 169, and one or more batteries 170. For convenience, the remaining discussion of RF beacon 119 will refer to a single processor, a single memory, a single transceiver, etc. In some embodiments, however, operations described in connection with a single component of RF beacon 119 could be carried out by and/or distributed across multiple instances of that component within a single RF beacon.

Processor 165 executes instructions stored by memory 166 and performs operations as a result of that execution. Those operations may include reading and writing data to memory 166, receiving data from sensor 169, comparing received data to a threshold and performing actions in response, causing transceiver 167 to transmit data via antenna 168, receiving data from transceiver 167 that was received via antenna 168, and/or other operations such as are described herein. Processor 165 may be a general purpose microprocessor programmed to perform operations described herein, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) specially configured to perform operations described herein, and/or other type of computational circuitry configured to perform operations such as are described herein.

Memory 166 stores data in a non-transitory manner. Memory 166 may be FLASH memory, RAM, or other type of known memory. Memory 166 is shown separately from processor 165 in FIG. 8 for convenience, but in some embodiments processor 165 and some or all of memory 166 may reside on the same chip.

Transceiver 167 comprises circuitry configured to receive data from processor 165 and transmit that data as modulated RF signals through antenna 168, as well as circuitry configured to receive modulated RF signals through antenna 168, demodulate those signals, and output resulting data to processor 165. Transceiver 167 is configured to transmit and receive RF signals according to one or more known protocols. In some embodiments, transceiver 167 operates in accordance with one or more BLUETOOTH® standards. In other embodiments, alternate communication protocols are used. Numerous types of transceiver chips that operate according to BLUETOOTH® standards or according to other standards are known and commercially available.

As is known in the art, a transceiver comprises a transmitter and a receiver. In some transceivers, some or all components of the transceiver may alternately be used for transmitting operations and for receiving operations. Other transceivers may have a separate transmitter and receiver. Embodiments include RF beacons having either type of transceiver. Embodiments also include RF beacons which only have an RF transmitter and lack an RF receiver, and/or in which profile data (described below) may be received by a separate port (e.g., a micro USB port) or in some other way (e.g., a removable memory card). As used herein, a reference to transmitting, causing transmitting, and the like encompasses transmitting (or causing transmitting) through a transmitter that is part of a transceiver or through transmitter that is not part of a transceiver. Similarly, “transmitter” encompasses components of a transceiver configured to transmit, as well as transmitter that may not be part of a transceiver and/or that may be in a device that lacks a receiver.

Sensor 169 is configured to measure one or more environmental parameters and to output data indicative of the measurement. In some embodiments, the environmental parameter is acceleration. In other embodiments, the environmental parameter is temperature. In still other embodiments, the environmental parameter is humidity. Additional examples of environmental parameters that may be measured include, without limitation, light, atmospheric pressure, and moisture. Sensors to measure acceleration, temperature, humidity, light, atmospheric pressure, moisture, and other environmental parameters are known and commercially available.

Battery 170 provides power to the other components of RF beacon 119.

In some embodiments, RF beacon 119 may be an off-the-shelf beacon such as, e.g., a beacon sold under the name “SmartBeacon-4AA Pro” or a beacon sold under the name “Yunzi,” both of which are available from Sensoro Co., Ltd.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing operations performed by RF beacon 119 according to some embodiments. In step 301, RF beacon 119 attached to a cargo restraint panel is activated. In some embodiments, RF beacon 119 may have a physical switch on housing 123 that is pressed or otherwise accessed to place RF beacon 119 in an ON state. In some embodiments, RF beacon 119 may be activated by installing battery 170, and with RF beacon 119 remaining in an ON state as long as battery 170 is installed and has a charge remaining.

In step 302, RF beacon 119 receives and store profile data that assigns one or more identification codes and one or more operational parameters. In particular, transceiver 167 receives a modulated RF signal via antenna 168, demodulates that signal to recover profile data, and outputs that data to processor 165. Processor 165 then stores that profile data in memory 166.

The operational parameters in the profile data may include, e.g., a transmission interval and a transmission power level. The transmission power level may be selectable so that a user can balance battery life and transmission range. In particular, higher transmission power allows transmission over a greater range, but requires more power from battery 170. The identification codes in the profile data may include a code that uniquely identifies RF beacon 119. The identification codes may also include one or more codes that that identify one or more groups to which RF beacon 119 belongs. For example, a shipper may assign one group code for RF beacons associated with cargo restraint panels used in one geographic region, another group code for RF beacons associated with cargo restraint panels used in a different geographic region, etc. As another example, a shipper may assign one group code for RF beacons used for one type of cargo (e.g., toxic chemicals), another group code for RF beacons used with another type of cargo (e.g., food products), etc.

After receiving and storing profile data, and as shown at step 303, RF beacon 119 transmits the identification codes at the transmit power level. In particular, processor 165 provides identification data representing the identification codes to transceiver 167. Processor 165 also causes transceiver 167 to output a modulated RF signal, via antenna 168 and at the transmit power level, that communicates the identification data. Processor 165 then waits an amount of time corresponding to the transmission interval (step 304), and then repeats step 303. The cycle of steps 303 and 304 continues until interrupted by RF beacon 119 being turned OFF.

As discussed above in connection with FIG. 8, in some embodiments RF beacon 119 may include one or more sensors that measure an environmental parameter. FIG. 10 is flow chart showing steps performed by RF beacon 119 according to some such embodiments.

In step 321, an RF beacon 119 attached to a cargo restraint panel is activated. RF beacon 119 may be activated in step 321 in a manner similar to that described in connection with step 301 of FIG. 9. In step 322, RF beacon 119 receives and stores profile data. Step 322 may be performed in a manner similar to that described in connection with step 302 of FIG. 9. In step 322, however, the one or more operational parameters included in the profile data may include one or more threshold values for one or more environmental parameters measured by sensor(s).

In some embodiments, one or more threshold values may indicate a range of allowable values for measurements of the corresponding parameter. Examples of environmental parameter threshold values that can be transmitted in connection with a particular type of sensor, as well as acceptable parameter ranges that may be indicated by such threshold values, are provided below in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Sensor Threshold Acceptable Range Indicated Type Value(s) by Threshold Value(s) acceleration Acc_(MAX) [e.g., in multiples of measured accel. ≤ Acc_(MAX) G] temperature Temp_(MAX) [e.g., in ° F. or ° C.] measured temp. ≤ Temp_(MAX) temperature Temp_(MIN) [e.g., in ° F. or ° C.] measured temp. ≥ Temp_(MIN) temperature Temp_(MIN), Temp_(MAX) [e.g., in Temp_(MIN) ≤ measured ° F. or ° C.] temp. ≤ Temp_(MAX) temperature Temp, ΔTemp [e.g., in ° F. Temp − ΔTemp < measured or ° C.] temp. < Temp + ΔTemp humidity Hu_(MAX) [e.g., in % (rel.), measured humid. ≤ Hu_(MAX) g/cm³ (abs.)] humidity Hu_(MIN) [e.g., in % (rel.), measured humid. ≥ Hu_(MIN) g/cm³ (abs.)] humidity Hu_(MIN), Hu_(MAX) [e.g., in % Hu_(MIN) ≤ measured (rel.), g/cm³ (abs.)] humid. ≤ Hu_(MAX) humidity Hu, ΔHu [e.g., in % (rel.), Hu − ΔHu < measured g/cm³ (abs.)] humid. < Hu + ΔHu

Table 1 also provides examples of units that may be associated with threshold values (and by implication, with acceptable ranges).

In step 323, RF beacon 119 transmits the identification codes at the transmit power level. Step 323 may be performed in a manner similar to that described in connection with step 303 of FIG. 9. In step 324, processor 165 waits an amount of time corresponding to the transmission interval before proceeding to step 325.

In step 325, processor 165 determines if a measured value for an environmental parameter is outside of a range (00R) indicated by the threshold value(s) provided in the profile data. In some embodiments, processor 165 may perform step 325 by a simple comparison of the output of sensor 169 with the acceptable range indicated by the threshold value(s). If that comparison shows the sensor output value is outside the range, the “yes” branch from step 325 is followed. If that comparison shows the sensor output value is not outside the range, the “no” branch from step 325 is followed.

If processor 165 follows the “no” branch from step 325, processor repeats step 323, repeats step 324, and repeats step 325, with this pattern continuing until it is necessary to follow the “yes” branch from step 325, or until interrupted by RF beacon 119 being turned OFF.

If processor 165 follows the “yes” branch from step 325, processor 165 performs step 326. In step 326, RF beacon 119 transmits the identification codes and an indicator that a value for the environmental parameter measured by sensor 169 has gone outside of an allowable range. In particular, processor 165 provides transceiver 167 with identification data that represents the identification codes and with OOR data that indicates the out-of-range condition for the measured parameter value. Processor 165 then causes transceiver 167 to output a modulated RF signal, via antenna 168 and at the transmit power level, that communicates the identification data and the OOR data. Processor 165 then waits an amount of time corresponding to the transmission interval (step 327), and then repeats step 326. The cycle of steps 326 and 327 then continues until interrupted by RF beacon 119 being turned OFF.

FIG. 11 is flow chart showing steps performed by RF beacon 119 according to some additional embodiments. In the embodiment of FIG. 11, RF beacon 119 independently monitors two environmental parameters (e.g., acceleration and temperature). If a measured value for one of those parameters is outside an allowable range, and similar to the embodiment of FIG. 10, an OOR indicator for that parameter is added to the transmitted identification codes. RF beacon 119 then continues to monitor the other of those two parameters. If a measured value for that other parameter is out-of-range, then an OOR indicator for that parameter is added to the data transmitted by RF beacon 119.

In step 331, an RF beacon 119 attached to a cargo restraint panel is activated. RF beacon 119 may be activated in step 331 in a manner similar to that described in connection with step 321 of FIG. 10. In step 332, RF beacon 119 receives and stores profile data. Step 332 may be performed in a manner similar to that described in connection with step 322 of FIG. 10. In step 332, however, the one or more operational parameters included in the profile data may include one or more threshold values for a first environmental parameter measured by a first of sensors 169 and one or more threshold values for a second environmental parameter measured by a second of sensors 169. In step 333, RF beacon 119 transmits the identification codes at the transmit power level. Step 333 may be performed in a manner similar to that described in connection with step 323 of FIG. 10. In step 334, processor 165 waits an amount of time corresponding to the transmission interval before proceeding to step 335.

In step 335, processor 165 determines if a measured value for the first environmental parameter is outside of a range indicated by corresponding threshold value(s) provided in the profile data. If so, processor 165 follows the “yes” branch to step 337 (discussed below). If not, processor 165 follows the “no” branch to step 342. In step 342, processor 165 determines if a measured value for the second environmental parameter is outside of a range indicated by corresponding threshold value(s) provided in the profile data. If so, processor 165 follows the “yes” branch to step 343 (discussed below). If not, processor 165 returns on the “no” branch to step 333.

If the “yes” branch from step 335 is followed, processor 165 goes to step 337. In step 337, processor 165 provides transceiver 167 with identification data that represents the identification codes and with first OOR data that indicates the out-of-range condition for the measured first parameter value. Processor 165 then causes transceiver 167 to output a modulated RF signal, via antenna 168 and at the transmit power level, that communicates the identification data and the first OOR data. Processor 165 then waits an amount of time corresponding to the transmission interval (step 338) and then continues to step 339. In step 339, processor 165 determines if a measured value for the second environmental parameter is outside of the range indicated by the corresponding threshold value(s) provided in the profile data. If not, processor 165 returns to step 337 on the “no” branch. If the measured value for the second environmental parameter is OOR, processor 165 continues to step 340 on the “yes” branch. In step 340, processor 165 provides transceiver 167 with identification data that represents the identification codes, with first OOR data that indicates the out-of-range condition for the measured first parameter value, and with second OOR data that indicates the out-of-range condition for the measured second parameter value. Processor 165 then causes transceiver 167 to output a modulated RF signal, via antenna 168 and at the transmit power level, that communicates the identification data, the first OOR data, and the second OOR data. Processor 165 then waits an amount of time corresponding to the transmission interval (step 341) before returning to step 340.

If the “yes” branch from step 342 is followed, processor 165 goes to step 343. In step 343, processor 165 provides transceiver 167 with identification data that represents the identification codes and with second OOR data that indicates the out-of-range condition for the measured second parameter value. Processor 165 then causes transceiver 167 to output a modulated RF signal, via antenna 168 and at the transmit power level, that communicates the identification data and the second OOR data. Processor 165 then waits an amount of time corresponding to the transmission interval (step 344) and then continues to step 345. In step 345, processor 165 determines if a measured value for the first environmental parameter is outside of the range indicated by the corresponding threshold value(s) provided in the profile data. If not, processor 165 returns to step 343 on the “no” branch. If the measured value for the first environmental parameter is OOR, processor 165 continues to step 346 on the “yes” branch. In step 346, processor 165 provides transceiver 167 with identification data that represents the identification codes, with first OOR data that indicates the out-of-range condition for the measured first parameter value, and with second OOR data that indicates the out-of-range condition for the measured second parameter value. Processor 165 then causes transceiver 167 to output a modulated RF signal, via antenna 168 and at the transmit power level, that communicates the identification data, the first OOR data, and the second OOR data. Processor 165 then waits an amount of time corresponding to the transmission interval (step 347) before returning to step 346.

In some embodiments, an RF beacon 119 may independently monitor more than two parameters. As an OOR condition is determined for each parameter, an OOR indicator for that parameter is added to the data transmitted by the beacon.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a simplified example of use of cargo restraint panels according to some embodiments. At location A, a first shipping container 401 is loaded with cargo units and 100 cargo restraint panels having identification codes n001 through n100. A second shipping container 402 is loaded at location A with cargo units and 100 cargo restraint panels having identification codes n101 through n200. Containers 401 and 402 may be railcars, intermodal transport containers, semi trailers, or other form of shipping container. As containers 401 and 402 leave location A at time t1, a monitoring station MS1 positioned at a location A exit receives RF signals from the RF beacons 119 in the cargo restraint panels in containers 401 and 402. Based on the identification codes in those RF signals, monitoring station MS1 determines that panels n001 through n200 left location A as of time t1, and that no OOR indications were received. Monitoring station MS1 transmits, to a server 411 of dispatcher 410 via one or more networks 412, data indicating: the departure of panels n001-n200 from location A, the time t1 of departure, the absence of any OOR indications, and an identifier (and/or a location) of monitoring station MS1. Monitoring station MS1, as well as other monitoring stations, may communicate with one or more base stations (BS) in a wide area wireless network. Those base stations may communicate via one or more additional networks 412 (e.g., the Internet) with server 411.

Containers 401 and 402 arrive at location B at subsequent time t2. A monitoring station MS2 positioned at an entrance to location B receives RF signals from the RF beacons 119 in the cargo restraint panels in containers 401 and 402. Based on the identification codes in those RF signals, monitoring station MS2 determines that panels n001 through n200 arrived at location B as of time t2, and that no OOR indications were received. Monitoring station MS2 transmits, to server 411, data indicating: that arrival, the time of arrival t2, the absence of any OOR indications, and an identifier (and/or a location) of monitoring station MS2.

While in location B, the temperatures inside containers 401 and 402 exceed an allowable range. As a result, the RF beacons 119 of the cargo restraint panels inside those containers begin transmitting a temperature OOR indication with the transmissions of their identification codes. Also at location B, containers 401 and 402 are separated so that container 401 may continue to location C and container 402 may continue to location D. Container 401 leaves location B at a time t3. A monitoring station MS3 positioned at an exit from location B receives RF signals from the RF beacons 119 in the cargo restraint panels in container 401. Based on the identification codes in those RF signals, monitoring station MS3 determines that panels n001 through n100 left location B at time t3, and that those panels were reporting OOR temperature indications. Monitoring station MS3 transmits, to server 411, data indicating: that departure, the time of departure t3, the temperature OOR indications, and an identifier (and/or a location) of monitoring station MS3. Container 402 leaves location B at a later time t4. Monitoring station MS3 receives RF signals from the RF beacons 119 in the cargo restraint panels in container 402. Based on the identification codes in those RF signals, monitoring station MS3 determines that panels n101 through n200 left location B at time t4, and that those panels were reporting temperature OOR indications. Monitoring station MS3 transmits, to server 411, data indicating: that departure, the time of departure t4, the temperature OOR indications, and an identifier (and/or a location) of monitoring station MS3.

Container 401 arrives at location C at time t5. Monitoring station MS4 at an entrance to location C receives RF signals from the RF beacons 119 in the cargo restraint panels in container 401. Based on the identification codes in those RF signals, monitoring station MS4 determines that panels n001 through n100 arrived at location C at time t5, and that those panels were reporting OOR temperature indications. Monitoring station MS4 transmits, to server 411, data indicating: that arrival, the time of arrival t5, the temperature OOR indications, and an identifier (and/or a location) of monitoring station M4.

While in route from location B to location D, container 402 experiences excessive acceleration as a result of an overly abrupt stop. This causes the RF beacons 119 of the cargo restraint panels inside container 402 to begin transmitting an acceleration OOR indication with the temperature OOR indications and their identification codes. Container 402 arrives at location D at time t6. Monitoring station MS5 at an entrance to location D receives RF signals from the RF beacons 119 in the cargo restraint panels in container 402. Based on the identification codes in those RF signals, monitoring station MS4 determines that panels n101 through n200 arrived at location D at time t6, and that those panels were reporting OOR acceleration and OOR temperature indications. Monitoring station MS5 transmits, to server 411, data indicating: that arrival, the time of arrival t6, the temperature OOR indications, the acceleration OOR indications, and an identifier (and/or a location) of monitoring station MS5.

As can be appreciated from the above, dispatcher 410 obtains significant useful information from RF beacons 119. For example, dispatcher 410 can track the location of cargo restraint panels to which those beacons are attached based on the locations of the monitoring stations providing the transmissions to server 411 as described above. This information can be used to determine panel inventory levels and locations among which panels could be transferred. As another example, and when combined with information about the cargo loaded with a particular set of panels, dispatcher 410 can track locations of cargo shipments. As a further example, data indicating locations and/or times that OOR indications were initially received can be used to help isolate when and where problems may have occurred during shipment. As yet another example, data from monitoring stations can be used to track the number of times each cargo restraint panel has been used in transport

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing components of monitoring station MS according to some embodiments. Any of monitoring stations MS1 through MS5 of FIG. 12 may have a structure similar to that shown in FIG. 13. In some embodiments, a monitoring station may comprise a computer 420 that is communicatively coupled to a cellular gateway 490. Computer 420 may comprise one or more processors 421, one or more memories 422, one or more wireless transceivers 423 having one or more antennas 424, one or more communications interfaces (I/F) 425, and one or more power sources 426. For convenience, the remaining discussion of computer 420 will refer to a single processor, a single memory, a single transceiver, etc. In some embodiments, however, operations described in connection with a single component of computer 420 could be carried out by and/or distributed across multiple instances of that component within a computer 420.

Processor 421 executes instructions stored by memory 422 and performs operations as a result of that execution. Those operations may include reading or writing data to memory 422, causing transceiver 423 to transmit data via antenna 424, receiving data from transceiver 423 that was received via antenna 424, causing interface 425 to transmit data, receiving data from interface 425, and/or other operations such as are described herein. Processor 421 may be a general purpose microprocessor programmed to perform operations described herein, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) specially configured to perform operations described herein, and/or other type of computational circuitry configured to perform operations such as are described herein. Memory 422 stores data in a non-transitory manner. Memory 422 may be FLASH memory, RAM, or other type of known memory. Memory 422 is shown separately from processor 421 in FIG. 13 for convenience, but processor 421 and some or all of memory 422 may reside on the same chip. Transceiver 423 comprises circuitry configured to receive data from processor 421 and transmit that data as modulated RF signals through antenna 424, as well as circuitry configured to receive modulated RF signals through antenna 424, demodulate those signals, and output resulting data to processor 421. Transceiver 423 is configured to transmit and receive RF signals according to one or more known protocols. In some embodiments, transceiver 423 operates in accordance with one or more BLUETOOTH® standards. In other embodiments, alternate communication protocols are used. Interface 425 comprises circuitry to send and receive data according to a known standard. In some embodiments, interface 425 may be a universal serial bus (USB) or Ethernet interface. Power source 426 may be a battery or other known type of power source.

Gateway 490 similarly comprises one or more processors 491, one or more memories 492, one or more wireless transceivers 493 having one or more antennas 494, one or more communications interfaces (I/F) 495, and one or more power sources 496. Gateway 490 may be a special purpose computer configured to receive and send data over interface 495 and to send and receive that data over a cellular telephone (or other wide area wireless) network using transceiver 493. Processor 491 executes instructions stored by memory 492 and performs operations as a result of that execution. Those operations may include establishing data links over a wide area wireless network, reading or writing data to memory 492, causing transceiver 493 to transmit data via antenna 494, receiving data from transceiver 493 that was received via antenna 494, causing interface 495 to transmit data, receiving data from interface 495, and/or other operations such as are described herein. Processor 491 and memory 492 may be similar to other processors and memories described herein, but store data and instructions to carry out operations of gateway 490. Interface 495 may be similar to interface 425. Transceiver 493 comprises circuitry configured to receive data from processor 491 and transmit that data as modulated RF signals through antenna 494, as well as circuitry configured to receive modulated RF signals through antenna 494, demodulate those signals, and output resulting data to processor 491. Power source 496 may also be a battery or other type of known power source.

Gateways such as gateway 490 are known and commercially available. One example of such a gateway is the device sold by Shenzhen Hybertone Technology Co., Ltd. under the model name GoIP-1.

In some embodiments, load restraint strip systems may include RF beacons 119. Load restraint strip systems can be used to secure cargo within a shipping container. Such systems may include load restraint strips and connecting strips. Load restraint strips may be flexible and have adhesive coated ends that are pressed into contact with interior side walls of a container. The other ends, or tails, of the strips may then be wrapped around cargo and tightened. The wrapped ends may be tightened using a tool and method such as are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,981,827, which patent is incorporated by reference herein. An adhesive-backed connecting strip may then be applied over the tightened ends to secure those ends together. There are various known types of load restraint strips and connecting strips. Such strips typically include a backing and some form of reinforcement. Examples of known strips are described in one or more of U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,089,802, 6,227,779, 6,607,337, 6,896,459, 6,923,609, 7,018,151, 7,066,698, 7,290,969, 7,329,074, 8,113,752, 8,128,324, 8,403,607, 8,403,608, 8,403,609, 8,408,852, 8,419,329, 8,979,449, and 9,090,194, all of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing load restraint strip systems, according to some embodiments, in which RF beacons are attached to connecting strips. FIG. 14 shows a shipping container 500 in which portions of a top 501 and right side wall 502 have been cut away. In the example of FIG. 14, shipping container 500 is an intermodal transport container. However, load restraint strip systems according to various embodiments can also be used with other types of shipping containers. Also shown in FIG. 14 are cargo units 503 secured by load restraint strip systems 510. Each load restraint strip system includes a pair of load restraint strips 511 and a connecting strip 512. Each of strips 511 may be, e.g., a known type of load restraint strip such as is described in one of the previously-mentioned U.S. patents. The stippling visible for two of strips 511 represents adhesive that has been pressed into contact with interior surfaces of right side wall 502. Although not visible in FIG. 14, ends of the other strips 511 on the left side of cargo units 503 have been pressed into contact with left side wall 504. Connecting strips 512 are similar to conventional connecting strips. Unlike conventional connecting strips, however, and as described in more detail below, each of connecting strips 512 includes an RF beacon 119 attached to its exterior face.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing load restraint strip systems, according to some embodiments, in which RF beacons are attached to connecting strips. Shipping container 500 and cargo units 503 of FIG. 15, which are similar to shipping container 500 and cargo units 503 of FIG. 14, are secured by load restraint strip systems 520. Each of systems 520 comprises a load restraint strip 521 a, a connecting strip 522, and a load restraint strip 521 b. Load restraint strips 521 a and connecting strips 522 may respectively be, e.g., conventional load restraint strips and conventional connecting strips. Load restraint strips 521 b are similar to load restraint strips 521 a. Unlike strips 521 a, however, and as described in more detail below, strips 521 b include RF beacons 119 attached to their interior faces.

FIG. 16 is a partially schematic plan view showing an exterior face 513 of connecting strip 512 (FIG. 14) according to at least some embodiments. FIG. 17 is a partially schematic plan view showing an interior face 514 of connecting strip 512. Connecting strip may have a length L2 and a width W2. In some embodiments, L2 is between 4 feet and 6 feet (e.g., 5 feet) and W2 is between 9 and 16 inches (e.g., 12 inches). RF beacon 119 may be bonded to exterior face 513 at approximately the midpoint of L2 and the midpoint of W2.

In some embodiments, and apart from the presence of attached RF beacon 119, connecting strip 512 may have a structure that is the same as or similar to that of known connecting strips. FIG. 18 is a partially schematic area cross-sectional view of connecting strip 512 taken from a sectioning plane having the location indicated in FIG. 17. An enlarged portion of FIG. 18 shows additional details of strip 512. Except for the portion of housing 123 of RF beacon 119 shown in that enlargement, the indicated structure may extend throughout the length L2 and width W2 of strip 512. Connecting strip 512 comprises a base layer 558, a reinforcement layer 559, and an attachment layer 560. Base layer 558 may be similar to, and be formed from materials described above in connection with, base layer 128 of facing material 115 of cargo restraint panel 100. Reinforcement layer 559 may be similar to, and be formed from materials described above in connection with, reinforcement layer 129 of facing material 115. Attachment layer 560 may be similar to, and be formed from materials described above in connection with, attachment layer 130 of facing material 115. A removable release paper liner 561 may cover attachment layer 560 and be removed prior to affixing strip 512 to connect load restraint strips. Liner 561 can be formed from, e.g., a paper product that is treated to resist the adhesive of layer 560. Such products include paper that has been coated or otherwise impregnated with wax, silicone or other non-stick material. A separate layer of adhesive 562, which is confined to the area of base layer 558 overlapped by housing 123 of RF beacon 119, bonds housing 123 to base layer 558.

FIG. 19 is a partially schematic plan view showing an exterior face 523 of load restraint strip 521 b (FIG. 15) according to at least some embodiments. FIG. 20 is a partially schematic plan view showing an interior face 524 of load restraint strip 521 b in a lined condition, and in particular, with a release paper liner 531 covering an adhesive of an attachment region 525. FIG. 21 is a partially schematic plan view of strip 521 b with liner 531 removed to expose the adhesive of attachment region 525 (shown with stippling). Also indicated are a first end 526 and a second end 527 of load restraint strip 521 b. Strip 521 b has a length L3 and a width W3, and attachment region 525 may have a length of L4. In some embodiments, L3 is between 9 and 16 feet (e.g., 12 feet), W3 is between 9 and 16 inches (e.g., 12 inches), and L4 is between 4 and 6 feet (e.g., 5 feet). A tail 529 of load restraint strip 521 b extends from an intermediate location at the end of attachment region 525 to second end 527

In some embodiments, and apart from the presence of attached RF beacon 119, load restraint strip 521 b may have a structure that is the same as or similar to that of known load restraint strips. FIG. 22 is a partially schematic area cross-sectional view of load restraint strip 521 b taken from a sectioning plane having the location indicated in FIG. 21. An enlarged portion of FIG. 22 shows additional details of strip 521 b. Except for the portion of housing 123 of RF beacon 119 shown therein, the structure indicated in the enlargement extends throughout all of tail 529 of strip 521 b. The structure of strip 521 b within attachment region 525, in a lined condition, may be similar to that shown in the enlarged portion of FIG. 18, but without inclusion of RF beacon 119.

Load restraint strip 521 b comprises a base layer 578 and a reinforcement layer 579. Base layer 578 may be similar to, and formed from materials described above in connection with, base layer 128 of facing material 115 of cargo restraint panel 100. Reinforcement layer 579 may be similar to, and formed from materials described above in connection with, reinforcement layer 129 of facing material 115. A separate layer of adhesive 582, which is confined to the area of reinforcement layer 579 overlapped by housing 123 of RF beacon 119, bonds housing 123 to reinforcement layer 579. Within attachment region 525, an attachment layer similar to attachment layer 560 (FIG. 18) may be bonded to reinforcement layer 529. Release paper liner 531 may cover that attachment layer and be removed prior to affixing attachment region 525 to a container wall.

RF beacons 119 of load restraint strip systems 510 and 520 may operate according to methods similar to those described in connection with any of FIGS. 9 through 12, but with those methods modified to comprise RF beacons attached to components of load restraint strip systems instead of cargo restraint panels.

FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing steps in a method according to some embodiments. In step 601, a plurality of cargo units are placed in a shipping container. The shipping container may be a railcar, a semi trailer, an intermodal transport container, or other type of container. In step 602, a plurality of cargo restraint panels are placed in the shipping container. Steps 601 and 602 may be performed simultaneously. For example, workers may place one or more cargo restraint panels, then place one or more cargo units, then place more cargo restraint panels, etc. Each of the cargo restraint panels comprises an attached RF beacon such as, e.g., RF beacon 119. Each of the cargo restraint panels comprises a foam component having at least one polymer foam sheet and may have a structure such as is described in connection with any of the cargo restraint panel embodiments disclosed herein. After placement of the cargo units and the cargo restraint panels in the shipping container, the cargo units and the cargo restraint panels are arranged, in a front to rear direction of the cargo container, in alternating groups of one or more cargo units separated by one or more cargo restraint panels. A non-limiting example of placement of cargo units and cargo restraint panels is as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. The cargo restraint panels may be partially compressed after placement.

In step 603, the RF beacons of the cargo restraint panels operate as described in connection with any of FIGS. 9 through 12. In step 604, the cargo restraint panels and the cargo units are unloaded from the shipping container. In step 605, one or more of the cargo restraint panels are loaded with different cargo units (i.e., cargo units other than those loaded in step 601) in a different shipping container (i.e., a container other than the container loaded in step 601 and 602). In step 606, the RF beacons of the cargo restraint panels loaded in the different shipping container again operate as described in connection with any of FIGS. 9 through 12.

FIG. 24 is a flow chart showing steps in another method according to some embodiments. The method of FIG. 24 may be performed by a system that includes a monitoring station (such as one of monitoring stations MS in FIGS. 12 and 13) and a computer remotely located from that monitoring station (such as server 411 of FIG. 12). The method of FIG. 24 may also be performed in conjunction with some or all steps of the method of FIG. 23. In step 621, while a shipping container holding a plurality of cargo units and a plurality of cargo restraint panels is at a particular location, a monitoring station receives RF signals from RF beacons of cargo restraint panels in a shipping container loaded with those panels and with cargo units. As to each of those RF beacons, the RF signal received by the monitoring station comprises identification data. In some embodiments, the RF signal may also comprise other data such as one or more OOR indications. In step 622, the monitoring station forwards the data received from the RF beacons to the remotely-located computer.

FIG. 25 is a flow chart showing steps in a method according to some embodiments. In step 641, a plurality of cargo units are placed in a shipping container. In step 642 the cargo units are secured with one or more load restraint strip systems. The load restraint strip systems may comprise load restraint strip systems 510 and/or load restraint strip systems 520. In step 643, the RF beacons of the cargo restraint panels operate according to methods similar to those described in connection with any of FIGS. 9 through 12, but with those methods modified to comprise RF beacons attached to components of load restraint strip systems instead of cargo restraint panels.

FIG. 26 is a flow chart showing steps in a further method according to some embodiments. The method of FIG. 26 may be performed by a system that includes a monitoring station (such as one of monitoring stations MS in FIGS. 12 and 13) and a computer remotely located from that monitoring station (such a server 411 of FIG. 12). The method of FIG. 26 may also be performed in conjunction with some or all steps of the method of FIG. 26. In step 661, while a shipping container holding a plurality of cargo units and a plurality of load restraint strip systems is at a particular location, a monitoring station receives RF signals from RF beacons of load restraint strip systems in a shipping container loaded with cargo units secured by those load restraint strip systems. As to each of those RF beacons, the RF signal received by the monitoring station comprises identification data. In some embodiments, the RF signal may also comprise other data such as one or more OOR indications. In step 662, the monitoring station forwards the data received from the RF beacons to the remotely-located computer.

In some embodiments, RF beacons attached to a cargo restraint component may be active RFID tags that operate according to one or more active RFID protocols. Such active RFID tags may operate according to an air interface standard such as, without limitation, one or more of the following: ISO/IEC 18000-7, ISO/IEC 18000-4, DASH7 (2nd gen of ISO 18000-7), IEEE 802.11n, and IEEE 802.15.4.

In some embodiments, an RF beacon attached to a cargo restraint component may operate in a transponder mode. In particular, and instead of (or in conjunction with) transmitting data at a repeating interval, an RF beacon in transponder mode may transmit data in response to receiving an interrogating signal from a monitoring station or other source. Such an interrogating signal could include, e.g., an identification code for that RF beacon and/or other code(s) to instruct the RF beacon to transmit information.

In some embodiments, a monitoring station may estimate a distance between that monitoring station and an RF beacon (and thus the cargo restraint component to which it is attached). The monitoring station may estimate that distance based on, e.g., a signal strength of the RF signal received from that RF beacon. In some embodiments, such an RF beacon may be configured to include, with identification code(s) and/or other transmitted data, an indicator of the transmit power level used by the RF beacon. A monitoring station receiving a signal that includes that transmit power level indicator could compare that power level to the strength of the signal as received and estimate distance based on the difference between transmit power level and received signal strength. The monitoring station could then report this estimated distance (e.g., to a computer such as server 411) with other data regarding the RF beacon. This information could be used for a variety of purposes. For example, a first distance R1 between a monitoring station and an RF beacon may indicate that the cargo restraint component to which that RF beacon is attached is located in a storage bin and has not yet been used to secure cargo. A second distance R2 between the monitoring station and that RF beacon may indicate that the cargo restraint component to which that RF beacon is attached has been placed into a shipping container parked at a loading platform.

In some embodiments, an RF beacon may log values for an environmental parameter over time and then transmit that log in response to a received command. For example, an RF beacon may measure temperature at defined intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes) and store each measured temperature value with the time that the temperature value was measured.

In some embodiments, an RF beacon may be connectable (e.g., via a short range wireless connection) to an external sensor in or on a shipping container. Such a beacon could them report OOR values of that external sensor and/or log values from that external sensor. One example of an external sensor to which such an RF beacon might be connected is a probe in a bottom of a container configured to detect water accumulation.

In some embodiments, an RF beacon may be programmable to store identification data regarding one or more cargo units secured by a cargo restraint component to which that RF beacon is attached. This additional data could transmitted by the RF beacon in addition to (or instead of) the RF beacon identification code(s) and used for tracking and/or other purposes.

In some embodiments, the specific position in a shipping container of each cargo restraint component having an attached RF beacon may be recorded. That position information, in conjunction with OOR indications and/or other data reported by the RF beacons of the cargo restraint components in that container, could then be used to identify cargo that may have been damaged. As but one example, assume that a railcar is used to ship perishable food products. Further assume that three RF beacons from cargo restraint components in a corner of a railcar transmit temperature OOR indications when the railcar arrives at its destination, but no RF beacons from cargo restraint components in other parts of the railcar indicate a temperature OOR occurred. In such a scenario, the cargo units in the railcar corner associated with the temperature OOR indications can be rejected as possibly spoiled, while the other cargo units in the railcar could be accepted.

The foregoing description of embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit embodiments to the precise form explicitly described or mentioned herein. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of various embodiments. The embodiments discussed herein were chosen and described in order to explain the principles and the nature of various embodiments and their practical application to enable one skilled in the art to make and use these and other embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Any and all permutations of features from above-described embodiments are the within the scope of the invention. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: placing a plurality of cargo units into a shipping container; and placing a plurality cargo restraint panels in the shipping container, wherein, after placement of the cargo units and the cargo restraint panels in the shipping container, the cargo units and the cargo restraint panels are arranged, in a front to rear direction of the shipping container, in alternating groups of one or more cargo units separated by one or more cargo restraint panels, with each of the cargo restraint panels being placed between, and separating, two of the cargo units, wherein each of the cargo restraint panels comprises a foam component having at least one polymer foam sheet, wherein each of the cargo restraint panels comprises an attached radio frequency (RF) beacon, and wherein each of the attached RF beacons comprises a sensor configured to measure acceleration, a processor, an RF transmitter, and memory storing machine executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform steps that comprise repeatedly transmitting, using the RF transmitter, one or more identification codes without an indication of acceleration outside of a threshold range, monitoring values for acceleration measured by the sensor, determining, based on the monitored values, acceleration outside of the threshold range, and transmitting, in response to the determining, using the RF transmitter, and with the one or more identification codes, data indicative of the acceleration outside of the threshold range.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the shipping container is a railcar.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the attached RF beacons comprises a battery.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the shipping container is a railcar, wherein the foam component of each of the cargo restraint panels includes a foam component front face, a foam component rear face, and a plurality of foam component side faces, the foam component side faces located between the foam component front face and the foam component rear face, and wherein, as to each of the cargo restraint panels, the RF beacon is located in a pocket extending from one of the foam component side faces and partially into the at least one polymer foam sheet.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the cargo restraint panels comprises a front face reinforcing material bonded to and substantially covering a front face of the foam component, and wherein each of the cargo restraint panels comprises a rear face reinforcing material bonded to and substantially covering a rear face of the foam component.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein, after placement of the cargo units and the cargo restraint panels in the shipping container, all of the cargo units are secured in the front to rear direction by one of another of the cargo units or one of the cargo restraint panels.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein, after placement of the cargo units and the cargo restraint panels in the shipping container, each of the cargo restraint panels is partially compressed.
 8. A cargo restraint panel comprising: a foam component having at least one polymer foam sheet; a facing material bonded to and substantially covering a front face of the foam component and a rear face of the foam component; and an attached radio frequency (RF) beacon, wherein the attached RF beacon comprises a processor, an RF transmitter, a sensor configured to measure acceleration, and memory storing machine executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform steps that comprise repeatedly transmitting, using the RF transmitter, one or more identification codes without an indication of acceleration outside of a threshold range, monitoring values for acceleration measured by the sensor, determining, based on the monitored values, acceleration outside of the threshold range, and transmitting, in response to the determining, using the RF transmitter, and with the one or more identification codes, data indicative of the acceleration outside of the threshold range.
 9. The cargo restraint panel of claim 8, wherein the foam component comprises a foam component front face, a foam component rear face, and a plurality of foam component side faces, wherein the foam component side faces are located between the foam component front face and the foam component rear face, and wherein the RF beacon is located in a pocket extending from one of the foam component side faces and partially into the at least one polymer foam sheet.
 10. The cargo restraint panel of claim 8, wherein the attached RF beacon comprises a battery. 